THE Royal Alexandra Hospital (RAH) in Paisley is reverting back to essential visits only due to an increase in the number of Covid patients.

The infirmary announced the changes, which take effect from tonight at 8pm, via the NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde website this afternoon.

All acute wards except maternity, gynaecology and mental health will move to essential visiting for the next three weeks until Tuesday November 2.

There has been an increased number of Covid-19 cases in the Renfrewshire area.

THE RAH has open wards which makes social distancing and separating patients more difficult.

A statement on the health board website reads: "The RAH has, in recent weeks, experienced an increase in COVID-19 hospital admissions due to the heightened community prevalence in Renfrewshire.

"Due to the particular challenges within wards with open accommodation, the separation of patients and their visitors is more difficult. Likewise, observing social distancing and other mitigations against COVID are more challenging.

"The essential visiting arrangements will be applied flexibly and compassionately and each patient’s needs considered on their own merits.

"Carers, those providing essential care or emotional support, or spiritual care are not considered to be visitors and should continue to be permitted to attend a patient in hospital.

"The arrangements within the RAH will be kept under close review to ensure we optimise the safety of patients, families and staff."

Wards with Essential Visiting

  • Ward 3
  • Ward 4
  • Ward 5
  • Ward 6
  • Ward 7
  • Ward 8
  • Ward 10
  • Ward 11
  • Ward 14
  • Ward 18
  • Ward 20
  • Ward 21
  • Ward 22
  • Ward 23
  • Ward 24
  • Ward 27
  • Ward  28
  • Ward 29
  • Ward 36
  • CCU
  • HDU